OC Spoiler or PR Stunt?

Weeks ago we were reporting Mischa Barton wanted out of The OC. Then producers denied she was not coming back. Now rumor is a main character will be killed off the show. We know that killing is the new black but is it really necessary, especially in The OC?

ToGawp reports Mischa is the one who will be left hanging. Maybe it's to send a message to all those young folks who watch the show that drinking and drugs are bad. Maybe they just really want to have a cliffhanger to keep us guessing on if she is really alive of not, but the word is if Mischa doesn't get killed off she will definitely not be a series regular next season. Looks like Summer needs to find a new BFF.